Undercooked pork can cause abdominal pain and nausea.
Food poisoning caused by undercooked pork is also known as "trichinosis." According to the MedicineNet website, this type of food poisoning is caused by roundworms. Although these parasites will eventually leave the system through the intestinal tract, they can cause several problems while inside the body.
Abdominal Discomfort
Undercooked pork contains Trichinella cysts, which are roundworm larvae. When the larvae are ingested, the stomach acid releases the larvae from the cysts. According to the , the larvae develop into adult worms in the gastrointestinal tract. The worms shed their larvae, which can pierce the gastrointestinal tract and cause great abdominal discomfort.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is the body's response to parasitic infection from undercooked pork. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, diarrhea lasts for one to two days before clearing up on its own. If food poisoning causes diarrhea, it is important to stay hydrated.
Nausea
Parasites from uncooked pork can also cause nausea. Nausea is a result of the roundworms irritating the gastrointestinal tract. According to the MedicineNet website, the tissues infected with parasites can become inflamed and require prescription medication.
Fever
A fever can surface two to eight weeks after eating undercooked pork, according to the MedicineNet website. The elevated body temperature is a result of parasites infecting the skeletal cells. Other symptoms of skeletal are chills and itching. It is possible that a skeletal cell infection can lead to heart muscle inflammation and shortness of breath. These symptoms can resolve themselves after six months, but it is possible they can last longer.
Muscle Pains
Trichinosis is categorized by two phases. The first phase occurs immediately, but the second phase takes two to eight weeks to take effect. At this time, trichinosis causes joint pain and muscle aches. This happens after larvae are distributed to body cells.
Tags: MedicineNet website, According MedicineNet website, gastrointestinal tract, undercooked pork, According MedicineNet, cell infection